By CHAT News Today

Alberta government advises against non-essential travel in southern Alberta

Feb 14, 2018 | 3:19 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The Alberta Government is advising against travel in southern Alberta due to the weather.

A blowing snow advisory has been issued for much of southeastern Alberta by Environment Canada and the Alberta government says frequent highway closures in southern Alberta have occurred to clear multi-vehicle collisions. These collisions have resulted in large traffic backups.

Although the closures typically last only a few hours, the province is advising residents who do not need to drive today in southern Alberta to stay home.

A winter storm alert is in place in Cypress County due to the weather conditions impacting visibility for travellers.

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Those who do choose to drive should be prepared for slippery road surfaces and reduced visibility, and adjust their driving accordingly.

Highways One has re-opened between Brooks and Strathmore shortly after 4 p.m., but drivers are still reminded to drive with caution.

Prairie Sprinter, a shuttle service between Medicine Hat and Calgary, sent us this video of the road conditions in Alberta.

The company tweeted they counted 17 semis in the ditch between Brooks and Bassano and noted one of their drivers is staying in Brooks until conditions improve.

Snowplows are on the highway, and drivers are reminded to stay back at least 10 metres to prevent collisions and give them room to work.

Drivers are also advised to activate their headlights so their tail lights are visible to other drivers following behind them.

Road reports can be found at 511 Alberta.